M.A. International Relations, Jacobs University and the University of Bremen; B.A. International Relations and B.S. Biology, University of South Florida

Work experience before Tufts

The Princeton Review

Where were you in your career and what drove your decision to go back to school?
I knew that I wanted to pursue an MBA or equivalent degree, so the question was timing. At the time of applying, I felt like I had enough experience to gain from the degree. Further, it was the right time in my life. I have fewer responsibilities now than I will in the future.

Why did you choose to pursue a M.S. in Engineering Management at Tufts?
I looked widely at possible programs. The Tufts MSEM was the only program that I felt truly provided everything I was seeking. I couldn’t stop working to pursue the degree, so it had to be a weekend program. However, I didn’t want to lose the rigor, or the cohort. I also wanted a cohort that would be more technically minded. I have been thoroughly impressed with how well the MSEM program is designed to leverage the fact that we move through the program as a cohort. A traditional MBA program without the cohort aspect simply wouldn’t compare.

What is your favorite part of the Tufts MSEM experience so far?
My favorite part is looking back on what is really a short amount of time, six months as of now, and realizing how much I’ve already learned. It’s quite remarkable and I didn’t really realize the quantity and quality of knowledge and experience I’d gained until I stepped back.

How do you balance the demands of work/family/school?
Balancing the demands of work, family, and school is certainly a challenge. It’s made easier by the program’s setup, but it is a challenge regardless. One technique I have is to use the commute to and from work to study for school, essentially getting more usable time out of the day. Another is to look for overlaps. For example, I needed to research adaptive learning technology for work, so I chose that as a topic for an assignment.